“Extra” host Maria Menounos chosen as Grand Marshal of LA Pride Parade in West Hollywood on June 9!

Okay, some of you would rather have Mario Lopez (in a speedo) as grand marshal of the LA Pride Parade but his lovely Extra co-host Maria Menounos should do just fine.

Christopher Street West has just announced that Menounos will be Grand Marshal for her dedication to the LGBT community and her continuing efforts using her platform for equality.

The LA PRIDE Parade takes place Sunday, June 9th at 11 a.m. on Santa Monica Blvd. in West Hollywood.

Maria said in a statement: ‘The LGBT Pride Parade represents something truly American. It’s the celebration of community, a celebration of uniqueness, diversity and progress, and it’s the celebration of a new United States where we do more than “tolerate” or “accept” our gay brothers and sisters, but embrace and celebrate them.’